New Jersey Travel Guide

New Jersey Travel: General Information

This state of New Jersey in the Mid Atlantic region of the US lies mainly between the large metropolitan areas of New York and Philadelphia. Bordered by New York in the north, the Hudson River in the east, and Pennsylvania in the west, New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states in the United States. The state was inhabited by Native Americans for over 2800 years. Early European establishments of the Dutch and Swedes made way for the English, who took control over it and named it the Province of New Jersey. The capital city Trenton was at the forefront of the industrial revolution. Scenic Trails, recreation areas, historical parks and reserves make this state a “must see” one.

New Jersey Travel: Key Facts

Capital: Trenton

Area: 8,729 sq mi

Population: 8,682,661 in 2008

Monetary Unit: US Dollars

Official Language: English

International Dial Code: 1 973

New Jersey Travel: Popular Tourist Destinations

• Newark: This is the largest city in New Jersey that has plenty of famous “Beaux-Arts” buildings like the Newark Museum, the Veterans’ Administration Building and the Cass Gilbert- designed Essex County Courthouse. Skyscrapers like the National Newark Building and the 1180 Raymond Boulevard are breathtaking sites. Gothic architecture can be admired at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart that has beautiful stained glass. Art lovers are inspired by the Newark Museum that houses the Tibetan collection and first class American Art.

• Jersey City: This industrial cum commercial center is also a port of entry with miles of waterfront. Downtown Jersey City has a marina, restaurants, schools, the Newport Centre Mall, hotels, waterfront walkway, transport facilities etc. The city’s noted landmarks are Loew’s Jersey Theatre and the Journal Square Transportation Center. A walk down West side Avenue will bring you to the ethnic grocery shops that offer a wide range of Indian, Filipino and West Indian items. Public transportation services are excellent in this city.

New Jersey Travel: Economy and Infrastructure

This state boasts the highest percentage of the nation’s millionaire households. Per capita incomes are above the average thus ranking it 2nd in the US. The state’s economy is mainly centered on the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, food processing, electric equipment, telecommunications and tourism. New Jersey’s economy is also fuelled by the scientific and service industries. Its geographic location, natural resources, and shipping industries have all contributed to the state’s economy.

Excellent infrastructure and transportation facilities have made this state what it is today. Extensive rail and bus services, expressways, railroads, airports, ferries and interstate highways have made it one of the busiest commercial cities in the nation. The State also has some of the best public schools and colleges. Historic sites, National Parks, and Museums have made it popular with tourists.

New Jersey Travel: Culture

The people of New Jersey were the first to create the “drive-in” movie, the delicious cranberry sauce, the zipper, the seedless watermelon and the ice-cream cone. The place is also the birthplace of modern inventions like the motion picture camera, FM radio, electric train and few more. The state has a long been associated with rock and rap music with a number of musicians including Frank Sinatra and Bruce Springsteen having connections with the state.